Restaurant crackdown on, many close fearing harassment

Following the tragic Bailey Road restaurant fire that claimed 46 lives, authorities in Dhaka have launched a relentless crackdown on restaurants lacking proper fire safety measures. 

This has spooked many restaurant owners, leading to closures across the city.

The Dhaka Metropolitan Police and other agencies have conducted over 562 inspections since the 29 February fire. These drives resulted in five cases being filed and the arrest of 229 restaurant workers and managers. 

However, many criticise the focus on employees and demand action against building and restaurant owners deemed ultimately responsible.

Restaurant owners, however, are critical of the current approach. The Bangladesh Restaurant Owners Association, at a press conference yesterday, demanded the formation of a task force to address their concerns. They argue that the current system of multiple agencies conducting independent raids with mobile courts creates unnecessary harassment and disrupts business operations.

"There's too much confusion," said Imran Hasan, general secretary of the association. "The government already has a food safety regulatory body. Let them do their job effectively."

The fear of raids has led many restaurants to shut down indefinitely. The Business Standard correspondents reported numerous restaurants closed across the city following the launch of these safety drives. Some restaurants have even resorted to citing "renovation works" on social media to explain their closures.

The crackdown extends beyond restaurants. Authorities are inspecting restaurants, shops storing gas cylinders, and even chemical warehouses. Following a directive from the High Court, Fire Service and Civil Defence, along with other agencies, have begun publicly marking buildings deemed "risky" based on fire safety violations. 

Additionally, the Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) sealed two restaurants – Sultan's Dine and Nawabi Bhoj for failing to demonstrate proper fire safety documentation. 

"The restaurants are situated a few metres away from the site of the deadly fire," said Muhammad Salman Farsi, assistant commissioner of Ramna zone.

Several other establishments, including Capital Siraj Center and Swiss Bakery, were fined for non-compliance.

The focus on fire safety comes after a public outcry following the Bailey Road tragedy. Mobile courts established by the Dhaka South City Corporation and Rajuk have sealed off several restaurants in recent days, including Gawsia Twin Peak, Keari Crescent, and a building in Khilgaon, for fire safety violations or operating without permits.

While the crackdown aims to improve fire safety in restaurants, the Bangladesh Restaurant Owners Association and some restaurant owners are calling for a more coordinated and less disruptive approach from the authorities.